Best Binoculars For Backpacking and Hiking - With 10x to 20x Magnification

The main considerations when selecting binoculars are the level of magnification, the lens diameter, and the level of waterproofing. Binoculars with a big lens diameter enable the user to see in lower light conditions, but they are also bigger, heavier, and normally more expensive than other types of binoculars. Therefore, the best binoculars for you have to balance your portability, price, and optical capabilities’ needs.

The main considerations when selecting binoculars are the level of magnification, the lens diameter, and the level of waterproofing. Binoculars with a big lens diameter enable the user to see in lower light conditions, but they are also bigger, heavier, and normally more expensive than other types of binoculars. Therefore, the best binoculars for you have to balance your portability, price, and optical capabilities’ needs.

Binoculars for backpacking and hiking require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand. To keep the size small, you should choose an objective lens diameter of 42mm or less. For example, 8x42 binoculars weigh about 1.5 pounds (0.7 kg), and 10x25 binoculars weigh about 0.75 pounds (350 grams).

Binoculars for backpacking and hiking require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand. To keep the size small, you should choose an objective lens diameter of 42mm or less. For example, 8x42 binoculars weigh about 1.5 pounds (0.7 kg), and 10x25 binoculars weigh about 0.75 pounds (350 grams). Read More

Binoculars with magnification of 10-20x are the starting point for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. For better versatility and portability, choose 10x magnification. Astronomy enthusiasts should choose at least 15x magnification. Remember that you will have to use a stabilizing tripod to get a clear image.

Binoculars with magnification of 10-20x are the starting point for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. For better versatility and portability, choose 10x magnification. Astronomy enthusiasts should choose at least 15x magnification. Remember that you will have to use a stabilizing tripod to get a clear image. Read Less